News for Education

David Ream, a co-founder of Plexus, passed away unexpectedly in December. A tireless advocate for the LGBTQ community and the arts, Dave was a fixture at Plexus events over the years. He was an LGBT certified business owner in the publishing industry, and was a dedicated community and civic leader.
Many members have asked about making a memorial donation to honor Dave's legacy. We invite you to ...read more

2015 NorthCoast 99: Shades of GreatRead on Inside BusinessThree NorthCoast 99 winners demonstrate how diversity fuels a great workplace.Like a work of art, great workplaces are crafted with a broad palette of employees with varying backgrounds and life experiences. Diversity isn’t just a required training topic; it’s a critical part of creating an environment in which top performers can thrive. ...read more

Niche chambers zero in on member needsBy: Rachel Abbey McCafferty Read on Crain's Cleveland
Different demographic groups have specific challenges that can be difficult to bring up in a mainstream chamber, says N. Michael Obi, chairman of the recently formed Presidents’ Council Business Chamber.
For African-American-owned businesses, that can include the challenges of becoming certified as ...read more

LGBT small businesses getting a diversity boost with corporate vendor supportBy: Marcia Pledger, The Plain DealerRead article on Cleveland.com
CLEVELAND, Ohio – Gil Kudrin didn't have a business plan when he purchased with credit cards a bunch of white T-shirts and started printing his own designs.
For him, entrepreneurship started with a street vendor's license, business partners, an ...read more

Plexus hosted two workshops in July and August to expand knowledge on the LGBT buying market and provide a basic overview of LGBT cultural competency as it relates to the workplace. For more information on bringing a session like this to your business, department or team contact us. Workshop HandoutsLGBT Cultural Competency Business Development Takeaway GuideGenderbread PersonDiversity WheelHuman ...read more